Welcome to Viejo San Juan
A picturesque city with stunning architecture and a rich culture
Viejo San Juan is one of the most historic and beautiful areas in Puerto Rico. Situated on a small island off the coast of mainland Puerto Rico, connected by the iconic Puente Dos Hermanos, this sparkling city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture, intricate fortifications, and bustling streets. Founded in the early 16th century, Viejo San Juan served as an important military outpost for Spain during the Colonial Era. Today, Viejo San Juan is a world-famous tourist destination. If you are looking for a luxurious and historical setting in which to live or purchase a vacation property, Viejo San Juan is the perfect place.
What to Love
- Designated World Heritage Site by UNESCO
- Outstanding restaurants and shops
- European-style architecture
Local Lifestyle
Viejo San Juan is a vibrant neighborhood known for its narrow streets, brightly colored buildings, and picturesque plazas. Residents are proud of their heritage and culture, creating a close-knit community home to many festivals and events. Numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops reflect the local culture. If you're looking for a slice of Puerto Rican history and culture, Viejo San Juan is ideal.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Those who are looking for a delicious dining experience in Viejo San Juan have countless options to choose from.
El Jibarito Restaurant is a must-visit, serving traditional Puerto Rican cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Barrachina, creators of the world-famous Piña Colada, is the perfect spot for a delicious meal with friends, offering a sophisticated menu of contemporary Spanish and Creole cuisine.
For delectable coffee, food, or desserts,
Caficultura and
Filtrado are both excellent options where you can sip Puerto Rico’s best coffees. To beat the heat, treat yourself with a delicious treat (more than cold enough for Caribbean temperatures) at
Anita la Mamma del Gelato. Our top recommendation — an incredible culinary experience — is Marmalade Restaurant on La Fortaleza Street. Chef Peter Schintler brings his culinary skills to the table to create outstanding menu options with locally-sourced produce.
As the night progresses, head to
Casa de Montecristo, located on Calle del Cristo street near Hotel el Convento. Enjoy a rich cigar and pair it with a top whiskey or a handcrafted cocktail for the ultimate treat. Viejo San Juan is sure to please every cuisine connoisseur, with many incredible restaurants.
In addition to the restaurant scene, Viejo San Juan offers a vibrant and eclectic bar atmosphere perfect for enjoying the night.
La Taberna del Lúpulo is a great place to start for cocktails and ale. The establishment’s wide selection of beers on top and intimate setting make it a perfect place for enjoying a few drinks with friends.
La Factoría, which placed number 12 on a list of the best 50 bars in North America, is a must — a go-to place for a salsa-filled atmosphere and handcrafted cocktails you won’t want to miss.
Scryer Rum Barrelhouse & Rooftop is a must-visit for rum lovers, with various delicious rum-based drinks. If you're looking for something special, check out
Pio Pio Champagne Bar, a cozy little space where you can enjoy champagne and bites in a comfortable and luxurious setting. No matter your preference, you're sure to find a bar in Viejo San Juan perfect for you.
Viejo San Juan is a shopping mecca.
Pure Soul Boutique is a great place to find stylish and unique clothing, while
Y Boutique offers a more cutting-edge shopping experience. Go to
Pink Tree Boutique for classic and colorful island fashion. For jewelry,
Coquí el Original is an excellent choice. Whether you're looking for a new outfit or a unique piece of jewelry, Viejo San Juan has everything you need.
Things to Do
Viejo San Juan is full of exciting events and fascinating landmarks to explore. The
San Sebastian Film Festival is the perfect event for film enthusiasts, while
La Campechada offers a chance to experience traditional Puerto Rican music, dance, and art scene.
Schools
Some of the notable private schools in the area include:
